Preventive Dental Care — Keep Your Smile Healthy for Life

Most patients should have a professional cleaning and exam every six months. If you have a history of gum disease or are at higher risk for cavities, your dentist may recommend cleanings every three to four months. Regular visits help us catch small problems before they become bigger and more expensive to treat.

The cost depends on the type of cleaning you need. Routine preventive cleanings are typically covered at 100% by most PPO dental insurance plans. Deep cleanings for gum disease may have additional costs depending on your coverage. We provide transparent pricing and help you understand your benefits at every visit.

A regular (prophylactic) cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and just below the gumline. A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, goes further below the gumline to remove bacteria and tartar from the tooth roots. Deep cleanings are recommended when there are signs of gum disease such as bleeding gums, gum pockets, or bone loss. If your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, learn more about our periodontics services.

Yes. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities at any age. Adults who are prone to decay, have sensitive teeth, or have exposed root surfaces benefit significantly from professional fluoride treatments. It is a quick, painless step that adds an extra layer of protection after your cleaning.

Most patients need a full set of dental X-rays every three to five years and bitewing X-rays once a year. X-rays let us detect cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, and other problems that are not visible during a visual exam. We use low-radiation digital X-rays for faster results and reduced exposure.

During a routine visit, your hygienist performs a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, then polishes your teeth. Your dentist conducts a comprehensive exam checking for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and bite issues. We may take digital X-rays if needed. You leave with a personalized care plan and your next cleaning already scheduled.

Most PPO dental insurance plans cover preventive services at 100%, including two cleanings per year, exams, and X-rays. This means many patients pay nothing out of pocket for routine preventive visits. Our team verifies your benefits and helps you make the most of your coverage. Learn more about insurance at myDental.

Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth where cavities most often develop. The sealant bonds into the grooves and pits of the tooth, creating a smooth barrier that keeps out food and bacteria. Sealants are especially recommended for children once their permanent molars come in, but adults with deep grooves or a history of cavities can benefit as well. The application is quick, painless, and requires no drilling.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a non-invasive liquid treatment that stops existing cavities from growing without any drilling or numbing. It is painted directly onto the decay, killing bacteria and hardening the affected tooth structure. SDF is ideal for young children, patients with dental anxiety, or small cavities that can be monitored rather than filled. One important note: SDF permanently stains the treated decay dark, so it is typically used on areas that are not highly visible.

myDental offers preventive dental care at multiple convenient Texas locations. Visit our locations page to find the office nearest you and schedule your cleaning and checkup today.